Range Box - 2nd Run

I own a couple of pistols, a Springfield Arms .45 and a Ruger Mark II Target. I used to carry them to the range in a couple of Walmart cheapo plastic pistol cases. Many years ago when in the Army, I saw the MTU guys at Ft. Riley using range boxes for their competitions and that always stuck with me so when I got my Dads tools when he passed, I realized that I could upgrade my range equipment.

The last pic shows both of my boxes, the one on the left was the first incarnation. Sturdy but it weighed about 35 lbs with guns and ammo; 3/4” plywood is heavy, it needed wheels. So, I built another out of 1/2” ply this time. It cut about 14 lbs off the total. Much better but still a bit heavy. I realize it will never really be light; I’m thinking about adapting one of those collapsible luggage dollies to the 3rd incarnation. I need to build another cause I need just a bit more room inside. And try for a more professional appearance.

I try to convince myself that it has that “rustic appeal” but a lot of it is just plain doing things too fast. I do have to say I like rough finished stuff better than stuff that appears to be slick as ice and all that stuff. I guess in my eyes, it makes it look more “hand-made”. Anyhow, this is probably my first real “visible to the world” project. I do get good comments at the range but no one has asked for me to build one yet. Even those toting their stuff in a bag. Gonna have to work on that I guess.

Nice range boxes. Don’t worry about the rustic look. Functional at the range is all that counts. If you want to dress anything up for shooting on a holiday, carve some nice grips from some fancy burl. I’ll send you enough from my cutoff box to make a nice set of grips for your 1911. Just let me know, walnut, maple, or cherry?